The historic Garrick Club in London has made a significant change by admitting its first female members since its founding in 1831. Actresses Judi Dench, 89, and Siân Philips, 91, have been granted membership following a rule change approved in May. This decision marks a turning point for the club, which has faced criticism for its exclusion of women.
The vote to include women in the club saw 60% of members in favor, a notable increase from a previous vote in November 2023, where only 51% supported the change. This shift in policy comes after years of controversy and pressure from various influential figures and the general public.
In an effort to expedite the inclusion of women, the Garrick Club utilized an old rule allowing the general committee to elect up to four members each year based on their eminence or public distinction. This maneuver enabled the immediate admission of Dench and Philips, bypassing the usual two to five-year admission process.
The club, located in London's West End, has a storied history dating back to the early 19th century. It was founded by 'literary gentlemen' under the patronage of Prince Augustus Frederick, Duke of Sussex, with the aim of creating a space where actors and refined men could meet on equal terms. Over the years, the club has attracted a diverse membership, including actors, playwrights, and influential personalities from various fields.
The recent changes at the Garrick Club have been met with mixed reactions. While some members have expressed concern over the inclusion of women, others see it as a necessary step towards modernization. The club's membership list, revealed by The Guardian in March 2024, includes prominent figures such as King Charles III, actors Brian Cox and Benedict Cumberbatch, and several high-ranking officials.
Following the admission of Dench and Philips, other notable women have been nominated for membership, including Mary Beard, Amber Rudd, and Cathy Newman. Although the process may take several years, these nominations signal a broader shift towards inclusivity within the club.
- The Garrick Club's decision to admit women follows years of mounting pressure and criticism for its lack of diversity. The club's rules had long excluded women, allowing them entry only when accompanied by a male member. This policy faced backlash from various quarters, including a petition in 2021 supported by Cherie Blair, a renowned lawyer and wife of former Prime Minister Tony Blair.
- The club's membership is known for its influence, with members including judges, lawyers, journalists, civil servants, and political leaders. The inclusion of women is seen as a step towards breaking the club's long-standing tradition of male exclusivity and embracing a more modern and inclusive approach.
- Judi Dench, celebrated for her roles in Hamlet and James Bond, and Siân Philips, known for her work in Becket and Dune, are both distinguished actresses with illustrious careers. Their admission to the Garrick Club not only marks a historic moment for the institution but also highlights their significant contributions to the arts.
- The Garrick Club's history is deeply rooted in London's cultural and social fabric. Named after the 18th-century actor David Garrick, the club has been a gathering place for the city's elite, offering a blend of literary tradition and social interaction. The recent changes reflect a broader societal shift towards gender equality and inclusivity.
